Kayalar Mosque

It is not difficult to notice this structure, which rises almost at the tip of the sea, while passing by in a boat on the Bosphorus. With its tiled roofs, wooden walls, and elegantly scaled minaret, the mosque resembles a historical Ottoman seaside mansion more than a mosque, immediately catching attention in the coastline silhouette. The Kayalar Mosque, with its silhouette reflecting on the blue waters of the Bosphorus, creates a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere around it, evoking a feeling of greeting a temple that silently witnesses the past to those who look from the sea. This modest yet impressive structure leaves an unforgettable impression on visitors at first glance, standing as one of the pearls contributing to the historical beauty of the Bosphorus.

History

The construction of Kayalar Mosque dates back to the mid-17th century, during the reign of the Ottoman Sultan IV. Mehmed. According to historical sources, the mosque was commissioned in 1662 by Sıdkı (Ahmet) Pasha, one of the chief officials of Sultan IV. Mehmed. At that time, the neighborhood where the mosque is located was known as Kayalar Village, and the structure derives its name from the rocky landscape surrounding it. Kayalar Mosque, one of the many small mosques built in the village settlements of the Bosphorus to meet the religious needs of the people, has served both the coastal residents and the sailors passing through the strait for centuries. With its simple architecture and the tranquility brought by its location, this mosque hosts an important cultural heritage that extends from the Ottoman period to the present day.

Over time, the original structure of the Kayalar Mosque was either destroyed or collapsed for unknown reasons. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the mosque area began to be associated with the Durmuş Dede Lodge, which is affiliated with the Qadiri order; for a period, the lodge and the mosque were used together, making this place a spiritual center. According to legend, when the body of a Sufi named Sheikh Maşuki washed up on the rocks and was found here, it was buried in the courtyard of the lodge, adding spiritual significance to the mosque. However, over time, the lodge structure and the surrounding courtyard fell into disrepair; especially in the 20th century, during the widening of the coastal road, the lodge completely disappeared.

The Kayalar Mosque we see today was rebuilt in 1987, adhering to its original architecture. The mosque, with its wooden frame structure, tiled roof, and small minaret, has been renewed in accordance with its original design and continues to serve as a place of worship. Visitors and local residents can pray in the peaceful atmosphere of the mosque; they can even feel a spiritual tranquility by watching the view of the Bosphorus through the windows inside. The marble fountain next to the mosque, which historical records indicate has the tomb of its founder in the Eyüp Sultan cemetery, also remains as a memory from the Ottoman period. The Kayalar Mosque, which defies the centuries, maintains its characteristic as a modest stop that offers both local residents and passing travelers the opportunity to connect with the past.

Explore By Yacht

One of the most special ways to explore the historical structures of the Istanbul Bosphorus from the sea is, without a doubt, to take advantage of the yacht rental experience. Instead of crowded ferries, you have the freedom to set your own course as you glide through the crystal blue waters of the Bosphorus on your own boat. This way, you gain the chance to see the hidden pearls along the coastline up close. One of the small but impressive structures you encounter on this route is the Kayalar Mosque, located at the rocky cape between Bebek and Rumelihisarı. Watching the silhouette of this coastal shrine embrace the Bosphorus from the deck of your private boat, away from the crowd, truly offers a privileged experience.

If you choose to explore the Bosphorus by renting a yacht, you will have the opportunity to examine the details and surroundings of the Kayalar Mosque much more closely by approaching the structure from the sea. During a yacht trip in the Bosphorus, many details that are not noticeable from land can be clearly seen. Features such as the mosque's foundation resting on rocky ground, the small windows at water level, and the reflection of its minaret merging with the waves are all distinctly visible while passing by on a boat. As you slowly glide along with the sounds of seagulls and gentle breezes, you can photograph this historical structure from different angles; you might catch the chance to feel the traces of the past in harmony with the rhythm of the waves. Reaching this tranquil corner of the Bosphorus from the sea offers visitors a sense of unique discovery, as if they are traveling through time.

For an unforgettable Bosphorus tour experience, you can also rent a yacht and head towards this peaceful neighborhood on the European side. In a private boat tour that you can plan according to your own schedule, you can pass by the Kayalar Mosque at your desired pace and stop at any point to enjoy the view. This journey, away from the crowds, will allow you to experience Istanbul's cultural heritage in the most free way, accompanied only by the sounds of water and wind. With a comfortable yacht cruise, you will have the opportunity to create unforgettable memories, far from the city's hustle and bustle, while enjoying the Bosphorus's cool breeze. Thus, you will live one of the most special moments of your Istanbul trip, greeting this small Ottoman heritage along the shores of the Bosphorus from the sea, and feel the joy of discovering the city's beauties from a completely different perspective.